Lei Day Celebration

May 1st is Lei Day in Hawaii. It's not an official holiday, but a statewide celebration of the Hawaiian culture and the aloha spirit through the creation and giving of lei.

Festivities are held throughout the islands, from elementary school May Day programs, parades, to a grand celebration featuring lei contests and more, hosted by the City & County of Honolulu at Oahu's Kapiolani Park.

The annual festival is free and features a performance by the Royal Hawaiian Band, hula, inauguration ceremony for the Lei Day Queen and Court, lei contest and exhibits, local entertainment, storytelling, Hawaiian games, and food and craft vendors.